Monday, March 26, 2012

48 hours

Day 2 was sure a crazy day. Here is a list of things Hank experienced.

1. Had an ultrasound of his brain. This was to check for bleeding because Henry was not super responsive and a bit "floppy" in his muscle tone. Good news... All normal.

2. Started two new antibiotics and stopped one. This is because his CRP (c-reactive protein) and white blood count were high. The docs thought that this could be a possible reason he was not having high oxygen saturation levels. Hopefully his new antibiotics (zosyn, vancomycin, gentamicin) will help.

3. Recieved more fresh frozen plasma via his IV. Still trying to get those blood coags to normalize. Hopefully soon!

4. Started total parenteral nutrition (TPN). This is a way for Hank to get the nutrition he needs to grow since he is not taking any thing though his mouth, yet. He gets fats, proteins, and sugars this way (plus a few extras). This will help him to grow so he can get his internal pacemaker.

5. Had a heart ECHO. This showed what we thought. Heart structure and function are good. Does have a patent foramen ovale (PFO) which is common in premies. He also has a patent ductus arteriosus. Usually this can close on its own, but if not, drugs can be used or a procedure to close it with a clamp. The good thing is, he is not shunting blood in the wrong direction which would cause fluid buildup in Hank's lungs.

6. Still has his chest tube in from his little surgery. This is draining any fluid left in there. The fluid is about dried in the the tube, so that will probably come out day 3. Yipee!

7. Got some steroids through his IV. Solu-cortef.

8. Got really wiggly this afternoon. Mom and dad are super pleased about that.

9. Has a double chin and fat fingers. (Just like his Mom has had while she's been on steroids). This fluid will be reabsorbed later and peed out. Pretty common in sick premies.

10. Heart is still being paced at 125 beats per minute. It was sure fun to see his heart in the ECHO beating that fast. I really am not use to that at all.

11. Started bili lights. This suntan should help him to get rid of excess bilirubin and prevent jaundice. He gets to wear awesome shades and now mom and dad really can't see his face at all. Poor guy!





Busy day for a little tiny kid. We're just trucking along. Little changes everyday.

Posted from my iPad

6 comments:

Erin Stones said...

Please let me know if there is anything that I can do to help you guys. Who has your other little guy? Hugs, love, and prayers are being sent your way. My sister had a baby at 30 weeks and she is now 8 and doing wonderfully. I am sure that Hank will lead a long wonderful life with great parents like you and love and support from all around. Really let me know what I can do to help!

renee said...

We are all here in Eagle Mountain praying for the little guy!! He is a survivor and when he grows up, watch out!! Let us know if we can help you or your family in any way!!!!

love ya,

Ron, Renee and family!

Tammie said...

Thanks for sharing, Liz :) So happy to get some more details. He's in our hearts and prayers. You too! Love, Tammie

laura said...

Thank you so much for the update! So happy things are progressing and that he's wiggling! Hope you feel good about Hank's team and are communicating well with them. Hope you're getting some good time with your little one and rest too! All your sisters in the 11th are praying for you. You're in our thoughts and hearts.

Jodi said...

Praying for your family Liz. Let me know if I can help.

Unknown said...

So good to read what is happening with precious Hank and you. Thanks for posting. You all are in my prayers. This is a tough time (I had a child in the NICU so can relate somewhat). Hang in there. We love you